A Fair Isle businessman is using the latest in technology to boost sales of his traditional glass designs.

Patrick Ross-Smith's stained glass windows are made using techniques that can be traced back to medieval times, but the design and marketing side of his business will now benefit from cutting edge technology thanks to a grant from the local enterprise company.

With a client portfolio including Dornoch Cathedral, Iona Abbey and Standard Life as well as a steady stream of orders from the tourists who make the ferry or plane journey to the Fair Isle, Mr Ross-Smith's secluded island location hasn't hindered his sales to date. 

However, he was keen to build on this success and break into new markets so approached Shetland Enterprise for assistance.  He was awarded £3475 towards computer equipment and design software to help him expand his product range, and for a new website to help bridge the geographical gap between his island location and potential customers.

Commenting on the grant, Mr Ross-Smith said:  "This investment will have a real impact on my business.  The design software and image capture equipment will allow extremely detailed working and will greatly reduce the time it takes to prepare artwork for production.  I'm quite a distance from my suppliers and customers so any time saving that I can make will have a considerable impact on turnover and hopefully help me make the transition to a large volume producer.

"The website is being designed locally and should be ready in the next few months.  Entering the world of e-commerce is a big step but is the best way to showcase my designs and reach new audiences.  My work will remain traditional with all the products individually hand crafted, but I'm keen to take advantage of what technology has to offer my business."

Steven Guthrie, development manager at Shetland Enterprise, said:  "The internet is an effective way for Patrick to expand into new markets and we are pleased to offer our support.   The new equipment should make his business more efficient and hopefully allow him more time to concentrate his efforts on the artistic side of his enterprise."